Abu dhabi: Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) and ICEYE have successfully launched three Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, Foresight-3, Foresight-4, and Foresight-5, into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) as part of their Earth Observation (EO) constellation, Foresight. This expansion was achieved via Exolaunch’s Bandwagon-4 rideshare mission with SpaceX from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, USA. The satellites have established communication, and early operational routines have commenced.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Foresight Constellation, which began with launches in August 2024 and January 2025, integrates SAR imagery with Space42’s AI platform, GIQ. This combination accelerates the delivery of geospatial intelligence to various global stakeholders. Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42, emphasized the company’s commitment to space innovation and collaboration, enhancing the geospatial intelligence market and scaling operations globally from Abu Dhabi.
Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE, highlighted how the partnership with Space42 showcases ICEYE’s technology, enabling the establishment of sovereign satellite capabilities. The launch of mid-inclination SAR satellites enhances persistent coverage across middle latitudes, advancing the UAE’s space ambitions.
The Foresight Constellation stands out with its 25-centimeter resolution geospatial intelligence capability. This enables real-time insights with daily revisit rates, sharper change detection, and reduced latency. The strategic value of SAR constellations has been proven in real-world situations, such as the confirmation of the Atatrk Dam’s safety after an earthquake in Turkey and during the UAE’s historic flooding.
The increasing demand for SAR systems is evident, with the market projected to grow significantly by 2030. These systems offer substantial benefits across various sectors, including faster emergency response, reduced maintenance costs, and improved operational efficiencies.
Partnerships are vital to the UAE’s progress and Space42’s operations. The Foresight Constellation exemplifies cross-border collaboration, with satellites produced in Finland, integrated in Abu Dhabi, and launched from the United States. This approach accelerates innovation and reinforces Space42’s position in the global space industry.
With five SAR satellites now in orbit, Space42 is on track to achieve full constellation maturity by 2027, supporting the UAE’s National Space Strategy 2030. The Foresight EO Constellation solidifies the UAE’s leadership in geospatial intelligence and satellite innovation, joining only 20 countries worldwide with SAR space assets. Abu Dhabi’s SAR AIT facility further strengthens the UAE’s industrial base and technological capabilities.